Meet Girum
Girum is 14 years old and was born with albinism. His birthday is April 17 and he is in grade 8. He came to Abenezer Orphanage at the age of six. He was born in Hawassa, a southern region of Ethiopia, and returned to his mother and father who were alive. Then his family took him to Welaita orphanage where he was again returned to Hawassa. During this time, Girum was with his parents until around 3-4 years of age but was left alone on the streets and in many different orphanages between the ages of 4-6. He was given to Elizabeth at the age of 6 by the government. These are Elizabeth’s words regarding Girum’s story. “Thank you for your prayer for Girum. His family left him alone because they believed that it was a curse to give birth to a baby having bright color. Girum is at peace now because he knows he is loved and has been set free from his past. Now is very happy, he love God, no sad. He prayed for people.”
When Bill and I first started fully supporting Abenezer in 2021, Elizabeth would always send us many photos of the children. In most photos and videos, Girum would avoid the camera or always looked very sad, void of any joy. As the time went on, you could see peace within him as he was surrounded by unconditional love. I am certain it took a long time for Girum to fully trust that Abenezer was a place of love, joy and peace and he was not going to be abandoned again because of his albinism. Girum is absolutely thriving now and is so helpful with the young children. You can truly see the joy he brings to everyone around him. This is just one of the many stories of how Elizabeth’s love truly saved a child from despair. We always hear the words “all we need is love” and the story of Girum confirms just that. What are you doing today to love others…….unconditionally love others…….from the depths of despair. This is how we are called to love but few truly, in this lifetime, are vulnerable enough to give it to others. I dare you to be vulnerable with your love. Jesus was……..and He changed the world. Now lets go be examples of Him and set the world on fire with love.